Learning Objectives

In this unit, we'll start to:

Summarize the history, principles, and goals of open education.
Define open educational resources and explain the functions of the 5R’s.
Explain Creative Commons and describe how these licenses facilitate the 5R's model that makes a work open.
Describe and apply the specific licenses available through Creative Commons.
Differentiate among free, affordable, and open educational resources.

Why This Unit Is Important

This unit sets the groundwork for the online portion of the Certificate in OER Librarianship. In order to thoughtfully discuss open education and assist others in the adoption, use, and creation of open educational resources, we must gain an understanding of the history, principles, and goals of open education, as well as the specific characteristics of OER.

Creative Commons licenses are the most frequently used license in the global open education movement, and are fundamental to designating what users are allowed to do with a specific open educational resource. They are built to operate alongside copyright law, which is a nebulous area that many educators and librarians may not be confident in navigating. OER leaders/librarians will likely find themselves in the role of "Creative Commons licensing expert" and will need to explain to others the various CC licenses and how they can be used and applied.

How This Fits Into the Larger Picture

Your knowledge of the “roots” of open education and its foundational principles will assist you in informing others, supporting faculty, and developing buy-in for a program at your institution. It will also help you to match the goals of open education with broader goals and objectives related to your library or institutional mission and strategic plan (which we'll do in Week 2). Understanding the definition of open educational resources and the characteristics that distinguish them from other "free" resources will prepare you to advocate for the adoption, use, and creation of OER at your institution.

What's Due This Week

Read sections 1.1–1.4 by Friday, March 6
Discuss
- Initial discussion post due Friday, March 6 (11:59 pm local time)
- Response post due Sunday, March 8 (11:59 pm local time)
Action Plan Activity due Sunday, March 8 (11:59 pm local time)